THE LIBERAL DEMOCRAT candidate for the new North Cotswolds constituency has spoken out after it was announced that the General Election would take place in July. 

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced that a General Election will be held on Thursday, July 4. 

Mr Sunak, who has been Prime Minister since October 2022, has called the election after months of speculation about its date.

Candidates for the new North Cotswolds parliamentary constituency have started giving their initial thoughts to the news.  

Paul Hodgkinson, Liberal Democrats candidate, said: "Although a July election was a little unexpected due to the Government’s unpopularity my team is already out campaigning - just as we have been for the last 6 months. 

"As a long term resident of our area and with a record of public service I relish the prospect of providing the clear alternative to the Conservatives in the North Cotswolds.

"I am more ready than ever to serve the public as MP after 17 years as a councillor and all my doorstep conversations say that a lot of people want positive and credible change. I can offer that."

The new constituency comprises of the following wards: Badgeworth, Bisley, Blockley, Bourton Vale, Bourton Village, Brockworth East, Brockworth West, Campden & Vale, Chedworth & Churn Valley, Churchdown, Brookfield with Hucclecote,Churchdown St. John's,Coln Valley, Ermin, Fosseridge, Hardwicke, Minchinhampton, Moreton East, Moreton West, Northleach, Painswick & Upton, Sandywell, Shurdington, Stow and the Rissingtons.